Atlantis Paradise Island celebrates 25 years

The Bahamas’ iconic Atlantis Paradise Island is celebrating a significant milestone, marking 25 years since the opening of its Royal Towers. This year-long celebration brings a fresh wave of experiences, from new culinary adventures to redesigned accommodations. It’s a fantastic time to visit and explore how this renowned resort has evolved, offering a perfect escape that balances vibrant energy with opportunities for a digital detox.

Royal Towers Transformation

Upon entering the Royal Towers, you’ll immediately notice the extensive renovations. The guest rooms have been completely reimagined, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors of the Bahamian sea – think aquamarine blues, soft white sands, and the subtle hues of coral reefs. I love how these colors create such a serene and comfortable atmosphere. Many rooms feature Juliet balconies, perfect for stepping out to catch a sea breeze and enjoy the panoramic views. If you’re lucky, you might get one with a more spacious balcony, complete with seating, where you can really relax and soak it all in.

Even though the primary focus might be on the resort’s extensive amenities, the comfort of your room is still important. While the new designs are stylish and soothing, a small detail like a bathtub’s width might not be ideal for everyone. However, the overall vibe across all accommodations, including the luxurious Regal Suite, is definitely fresh and contemporary.

A Digital Detox Haven

It’s interesting to consider how much the world has changed since the Royal Towers first opened their doors. Back then, the internet was nascent and smartphones weren’t part of our daily lives. Now, in 2023, Atlantis presents a surprisingly ideal setting for a digital detox. The sheer variety of activities available makes it easy to put your phone away and immerse yourself in the moment. You can spend hours exploring the sprawling water park or simply enjoying the stunning natural beauty surrounding the resort.

The Exclusive Cove

For a more secluded feel, The Cove offers a distinct experience. This 600-room enclave, which opened in 2007, strikes a wonderful balance between feeling luxurious and welcoming. The open-air lobby, filled with water features, natural rock formations, and lush plants, immediately sets a tranquil mood. As a guest here, you gain access to an exclusive pool area that’s a must-visit. It’s a lively spot, especially when a DJ is playing, but there are plenty of loungers both in and out of the water, allowing for both relaxation and a bit of people-watching.

Aquaventure Water Park Extravaganza

With the incredible 152-acre Aquaventure water park, you’re unlikely to spend much time confined to your room. This place is designed for adventure! You can drift along the lazy river on a tube or, if you’re feeling brave, take on the series of steep slides. One of the highlights is the slide that launches you down a Mayan temple and then propels you through a clear tube that runs through a shark-filled lagoon. It’s an exhilarating experience that truly captures the spirit of the resort.

Casino Refresh

Gamblers will be pleased to know the casino is getting a modern update. The renovations aim for a more contemporary design, incorporating celestial fixtures and fluid lines that evoke the shimmering reflections of the sea. A new high-limit slots lounge is available for those looking for bigger bets, and Bar Sol offers a stylish spot to enjoy a cocktail, perhaps before or after dinner, with live music as a backdrop.

Culinary Delights and New Flavors

The abundance of activities at Atlantis is bound to work up an appetite, and thankfully, there are 21 restaurants to choose from. This year, three new dining options have opened to coincide with the anniversary celebrations. Paranza, under Chef Michael White, is a passionate tribute to Italian regional cuisine, with a particular emphasis on exquisitely prepared seafood. Silan, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant by James Beard Award-winning chef Alon Shaya, is a welcome addition, situated right on the casino floor.

Perhaps one of the most surprising and pleasing additions for many will be the new Shake Shack outpost, conveniently located poolside near the Royal Towers. It’s the first Shake Shack in the Bahamas. Beyond the classic burgers and fries, they’ve introduced two unique items exclusive to Atlantis: the Paradise Crunch Salad, a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and plantain chips, and the Sunset Shake, a tropical delight blending mango passion fruit custard with guava strawberry puree. Given that pools and casual food spots can close early as the sun sets, Shake Shack becomes a convenient and tasty option for a pre-dinner bite.

A Unique Shake Shack Experience

What truly sets this Shake Shack apart is its full bar, making it the first of its kind. The cocktail menu features beach and pool-inspired drinks that are expertly crafted. The Tropical Rosé offers a sophisticated twist on a wine cooler, blending sparkling rosé with Aperol and passionfruit juice. They also feature a compelling take on Sky Juice, a traditional Bahamian drink. Their version is a creamy, botanical concoction using Bombay Sapphire Gin, Flor de Cana Rum, coconut water, sweet cream, and a hint of nutmeg, presenting a delightful interpretation of a local classic.

The Dilly Club: A Cocktail Haven

For truly exceptional cocktails, a visit to The Dilly Club is essential. While not technically part of the resort, this bar is located in the Marina section and is run by the talented team behind Nassau’s Bar Bon Vivants. The ambiance is very South Floridian, with an abundance of potted palms, botanical-themed wallpaper, bamboo furniture, and unique thatched shades over the pendant lights. The cocktail creations here are truly next-level, with meticulous attention to detail, house-made syrups, and a strong focus on rum-based drinks.

I highly recommend trying their Little Island Daiquiri, a creative take on the classic featuring Coconut Cartel Rum, Chinola Passion Fruit Liqueur, orgeat, and lime. The Jungle Bird is another standout, a faithful homage to the Tiki classic, prepared with Plantation Xamayca Rum, Campari, simple syrup, lime, and pineapple. Keep in mind that The Dilly Club does not accept reservations and you cannot charge drinks to your room, but the quality of the cocktails makes it well worth the visit.

Anniversary Celebrations

The resort recently marked its 25th anniversary of the Royal Towers with a festive weekend. Throughout the year, Atlantis is continuing the celebration with special offerings. You can sample anniversary dishes, such as Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s lobster new style or a flavorful seafood flatbread from Lagoon Bar & Grill. Don’t miss the signature anniversary cocktail, a refreshing blend of vodka, infused syrups, pineapple, lime, Curaçao, and Angostura Bitters, topped with Prosecco. It’s a wonderful way to toast to 25 years of fun in the sun.

If you’re looking for truly unforgettable experiences, the resort is offering some exceptionally exclusive packages. One such package includes a multi-night stay in a suite, a multi-course dinner at Chef José Andrés’ restaurant FISH, and a full-day seaplane excursion to Kamalame Cay with a private beachside lunch. Additional VIP experiences encompass an overnight marine life camping adventure, a spa day, and a special omakase and sake experience at Nobu. These premium options provide an unparalleled level of indulgence for those seeking something extraordinary.

Planning Your Stay

When planning a visit, consider the time of year. While the year-round sunshine is a huge draw, understanding the flow of resort activities can enhance your experience. Events and special dining opportunities are often tied to the anniversary throughout the year, so checking the resort’s calendar upon booking is a good idea. For those traveling with family, the sheer scale of Aquaventure means you can easily dedicate entire days to water-based fun, while adults might appreciate the dining options and the casino. Remember that some of the more exclusive experiences, like the top-tier suites and special event dinners, come with a significant price tag, so setting a budget beforehand is wise.

Whether you’re drawn to the thrilling water slides, the diverse culinary scene, or simply the chance to relax on beautiful beaches, Atlantis Paradise Island offers a memorable Bahamian escape. The resort’s continuous evolution, especially with its 25th anniversary upgrades, ensures there’s always something new to discover, making it a dynamic destination for travelers of all kinds.